Abstract

Samia S. Barghash*, Rehab M. Elgharabawy, Hatem Abdel Moniem Ahmed, Ruba Al-Otaiq, Banan Aba Alkhail

ABSTRACT

Background: The intentional use of metals as active ingredients in cosmetic products is prohibited in most countries due to their toxic and persistent nature and because daily transdermal exposure over a long period of time of metal containing compounds in personal care products, it is necessary to evaluate the safety of these products. The aim of this study was to determine the concentration of heavy metals in the most commonly used skin lightening, moisturizering creams and under arm products, purchased in Saudi Arabia. Methods: Total of 35 samples from different brands, 13 for antiperspirant and 11 for each skin moisturizing creams and skin lightening creams, frequently used among females in Saudi Arabia were digested. The digested samples were analyzed for lead, aluminum, arsenic and mercury using graphite furnace - atomic absorption spectrometry (GF-AAS). Results: The heavy metals, aluminum, arsenic, mercury and lead were detected in all samples with varying concentrations. The level of both aluminum and mercury were the highest in comparison to other metals under study. There was a statistically significant difference of mercury, arsenic and aluminum concentration P < (0.05) in different brands of both skin creams and antiperspirants. Conclusion: We found that the expensive and cheap cosmetics are neither safe nor free from heavy metals and they are international brands. Major quality controls are recommended for products designed to directly contact with the human body for long time period.